Somali pirates have demanded a ransom of $3 million for the release of 17 hostages, including 10 Pakistani nationals, following the hijacking of an oil tanker.
According to details, the pirates conveyed their demand during contact with the Ansar Burney Trust, stating that payment is the only condition for releasing the crew, vessel, and cargo, while refusing any reduction in the amount.
Qurrat-ul-Ain Advocate, Director of the trust, said the communication took place on Monday via WhatsApp, where the pirate group rejected reports of a $10 million ransom demand and denied recognition of any shipowner named Usman.
She added that the pirates refused third-party mediation and insisted on direct negotiations with the government of Pakistan.
The tanker Honour 25 was hijacked last month while traveling from Oman to Somalia, carrying 17 crew members onboard, including 10 Pakistanis.
Families of the hostages continue to appeal for their safe and early release.